Following a gripping five-match Test series that ended in a dramatic 2–2 draw, England’s Harry Brook—awarded Player of the Series—paid glowing tribute to India’s fast bowler Mohammed Siraj. Brook acknowledged Siraj’s match-winning brilliance in the final Test at The Oval and called him a “deserving” hero for India’s remarkable fightback.
Brook, who scored a brilliant fourth-innings century in the final Test and was one of England’s most consistent performers throughout the series, did not shy away from admitting that Siraj’s impact shifted the momentum in India’s favour. “He’s had a phenomenal series,” Brook said, referring to Siraj’s total of 23 wickets across the five matches. “He’s bowled every spell with heart, pace, and consistency. He deserves every bit of success.”
Siraj was named Player of the Match in the fifth Test for his dramatic five-wicket haul on the final day. England, needing only 35 runs with four wickets in hand, were in full control when the day began. But Siraj’s relentless attack under pressure turned the match on its head. His final burst included the wickets of Jamie Smith, Jamie Overton, and Gus Atkinson—the last bowled by a fierce yorker that sealed India’s six-run victory.
Brook praised not only Siraj’s bowling skill but also his resilience and belief, particularly after a dropped catch the previous day that allowed Brook himself to extend his innings. “It’s one thing to bowl well when you’re dominating. But to come back after a tough moment and win the game for your team—that takes character,” Brook said. “Siraj’s belief in himself was unmatched.”
The series had swung both ways before the final Test, with England leading 2–1 before India stormed back to level it. Siraj’s performance across conditions—whether with the new ball in swinging conditions or reversing it later—was a constant threat. His control and ability to pick up key wickets at vital times kept India in the contest even when they looked out of it.
Brook also acknowledged that India’s overall response in the final two Tests, especially under pressure, was a testament to their mental strength. “You’ve got to give credit where it’s due. They fought hard. They kept coming at us. That sort of fight doesn’t happen without leaders stepping up—Siraj was one of them.”
While Brook took home the Player of the Series award thanks to multiple key innings, including a match-saving century in the fifth Test, he made it clear that the real story was how Siraj dragged India across the line when the odds were stacked against them.
India’s six-run win at The Oval wasn’t just a narrow escape—it was a statement of intent and resilience. Brook’s admiration of Siraj’s role reflects the mutual respect between two high-performing athletes who pushed each other to the limit.
As the series closed on level terms, one thing was clear: Siraj’s consistency, heart, and timing didn’t just win a match. They earned him admiration from opponents and fans alike—and helped define one of the most intense Test series in recent memory.